EcoRum

"Wadi Rum is not for a human; it is for humanity" – His Majesty King Hussein of Jordan

Owing to growing tourist numbers and uncontrolled hunting, Wadi Rum’s ecosystem was coming under pressure. In response, Wadi Rum was declared a protected area in 1997.  As in other ecosystems of the world, human habitation has taken its toll on Wadi Rum. Wildlife depicted in rock art, such as lions and the Arabian leopards, are beyond return; but hope exists for other species native to Wadi Rum such as the Arabian Oryx.

Wadi Rum stretches over 2000 square km, 720 km of which are inside the protected area comprising the largest reserve in both Jordan and the Levant.  Wadi Rum Protected Area is split into two regions: the heavy usage area and the wild area.  Eco activities and adventures are encouraged and promoted by the site management to sustain and protect the fragile nature of Wadi Rum.

The Heavy Usage Area

Around 120 square km of the protected area is dedicated to all the visitors and usage of 4x4 vehicles. This area includes the most visited sites and attractions: Jabal Rum, Jabal Khazali, the Nabatean Temple, Siq Um Tawaqi, Al Hassany Sand Dunes, and many others.

The Wild Area

On the borderline separating this area from the heavy usage area, you can immediately discern the untouched plant cover glowing against the contrast of the desert mountains. Only eco-activities such as trekking, camel caravans, horseback riding, and wild camps are allowed in this area. A limited number of tourists are allowed access to the wild area, so make sure you book in advance. The wild area hosts the highest peak in Jordan: Um Al Dami, which towers at 1850 m above sea level. This site is increasingly attracting professional climbers from around the world.

Outside Wadi Rum Protected Area

The splendor of Wadi Rum is not confined to the protected area: over 1000 square km make Wadi Rum seem endless. In this area, numerous camps operate.

The Reintroduction of the Arabian Oryx

In 2002, the Jordanian Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) began a reintroduction program for the Arabian Oryx in Wadi Rum Protected Area.  Presently, this program is being conducted in cooperation with the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi, UAE.  The project aims to release the Oryx back into their natural habitat while using the latest techniques of satellite tracking to monitor their ranging behavior.